Device case with balanced hinge

ABSTRACT

This application relates to a computing device case that provides some amount of torsional force in order to cancel at least some static and dynamic loads experienced by the computing device when the case is arranged as a stand. By canceling out these loads, the computing device to be angled at an almost unlimited number of angles relative to a surface on which the computing device is resting. Flexible elements in the case can resist the static and dynamic loads of the computing device, thereby allowing the computing device to receive touch inputs at almost any angle without causing the case and the computing device to collapse.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/273,861, filed Sep. 23, 2016, entitled “DEVICE CASE WITH BALANCEDHINGE,” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/300,724 filed Feb. 26, 2016 of the same title, the contents of whichare incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for all purposes.

FIELD

The described embodiments relate generally to computing device cases andcovers. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to cases thatcan serve as a stand for the computing device and that provide someamount of torsional force for canceling out static and dynamic loads ofthe computing device when upright, or at least partially upright.

BACKGROUND

Computing devices have become increasingly portable as a result ofadvances in component manufacturing that have yielded more compactelectronic components. Many of these computing devices include flatscreens that allow for viewing digital content in almost anyenvironment. In situations where a user may prefer a computing device tobe in a static position for an extended period of time, there may belimited resources for adequately standing the computing device uprightfor viewing the flat screen. Moreover, certain stands may be limited toa single upright position, thereby limiting the ways a user can interactwith the computing device while the computing device is being supportedby the stand.

SUMMARY

This paper describes various embodiments that relate to folio cases forcomputing devices. In some embodiments, a case for a computing device isdescribed. The case includes cover portions configurable as a stand forthe computing device, and a flexible region between the cover portions.The flexible region is configured to provide a torsional force thatcounteracts at least some force exerted by the computing device when thecover portions are configured as the stand.

In other embodiments, a case configurable as a stand for a computingdevice is set forth. The case can include at least a first covercomprising a first flexible region and at least one cover layer disposedover the first flexible region, and a second cover connected to thefirst cover by at least a second flexible region. The first flexibleregion and the second flexible region are configured to providetorsional forces that counteract a weight of the computing device whenthe first cover and the second cover are arranged as the stand for thecomputing device.

In yet other embodiments, a system is set forth. The system includes atleast a device cover configurable as both a stand and a protective coverfor a computing device. The system also includes a flexible componentdisposed within the device cover such that the flexible componentprovides a torsional spring force that counteracts static and dynamicforces exerted by the computing device when the device cover isconfigured as the stand.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, theprinciples of the described embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements.

FIG. 1A illustrates a front perspective view a device cover 100 forpositioning a computing device into a position suitable for viewing adisplay of the computing device.

FIG. 1B illustrates a rear perspective view of the device cover shown inFIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a case,in accordance with some described embodiments.

FIG. 2B illustrate a rear perspective view of the case shown in FIG. 2A,showing additional torsional elements of the case.

FIG. 3A is a front perspective of an embodiments of a case, inaccordance with some described embodiments.

FIG. 3B illustrates a rear isometric view of the case shown in FIG. 3A,further showing additional torsional elements, such as a first torsionalelement, a second torsional element, and a third torsional element.

FIG. 4A illustrate a front perspective view of an embodiment of a casethat includes alternate flexible regions, in accordance with somedescribed embodiments.

FIG. 4B illustrates a rear isometric view of the case shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A illustrates a cross sectional view of a flexible region of acase.

FIG. 5B illustrates another embodiment of a flexible region that can beincluded in any of the cases described herein.

FIG. 5C illustrates yet another embodiment of a flexible region that canbe included in any of the cases described herein.

FIG. 5D illustrates another embodiment of a flexible region that can beincluded in any of the cases described herein.

FIG. 6A illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a casethat is attached to a back surface of the computing device, with theback surface opposite the display, in accordance with some describedembodiments.

FIG. 6B illustrates a rear isometric view of the case shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a case thatcan include one or more flexible regions and conductive pathways foroperating electrical components embedded in the case 700, in accordancewith some described embodiments.

FIG. 8A illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a casethat includes magnets for creating a magnetic trough in which thecomputing device can hover above as a result of magnetic repulsion andat least one or more flexible regions of the case, in accordance withsome described embodiments.

FIG. 8B illustrates a front perspective view of the case shown in FIG.8A, with the computing device removed from the case.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming a case, inaccordance with some described embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, references are made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in whichare shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordancewith the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are describedin sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice thedescribed embodiments, it is understood that these examples are notlimiting; such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the describedembodiments.

Computing device cases provide a number of benefits for users who seekto protect their respective computing devices from weather, collisions,and general wear over the lifetime of the computing device. The casesdiscussed herein are purposed as multi-function cases that can not onlyprotect a computing device from damage, but also provide support for thecomputing device when the case is operating as a stand. The casesdescribed herein can support the computing device in multiple positionswhile accounting for the static load (that is, the weight) of thecomputing device. Further, the cases may support a dynamic load receivedby the computing device during use. A “dynamic load” may be referred toas a force, or forces, applied exerted on the computing device duringuse, such as when a user is touching the computing device. For example,in some embodiments, the case includes two cover portions configurableas a stand for the computing device. A flexible region can be connectedbetween the two cover portions. The flexible region can provide atorsional force that counteracts at least some amount of static weightof the computing device when the two cover portions are configured asthe stand.

When the case is arranged as a stand for the computing device, at leasta portion or a majority of a static load of the computing device can becanceled by the case. Additionally, the dynamic loads experienced by thecomputing device can be at least partially canceled by mechanicalfeatures of the case. Such mechanical features can include one or moresprings, and/or one or more flexible layers disposed within one or moreflexible regions of the case. For example, the case can be attached to aback surface of the computing device, opposite a flat panel display ofthe computing device. The case can include a flexible region thatincludes at least one spring and/or at least one flexible layer. Theflexible region can act to resist bending of the case and therebyovercome at least some of the static load of the computing device whenthe case and the computing device are resting on a surface. As an angleof the flexible region is increased or decreased, a torsional load onthe flexible region is also increased or decreased, thereby increasingor decreasing a resistive force of the flexible region. In this way, theresistive force can assist in canceling out at least a portion of thestatic load. As a result, the computing device and the case can bearranged in multiple positions without the static load completelyovercoming a force of friction provided by the surface on which thecomputing device and the case reside.

In some embodiments, the case can include a back cover for attaching tothe back surface of the computing device opposite the flat paneldisplay, and a front cover that extends around a side of the computingdevice and at least partially covers the flat panel display. A portionof the back cover of the case can include a first flexible region.Additionally, an area between the front cover and the back cover caninclude a second flexible region. Furthermore, an inside surface of thefront cover, relative to the computing device, can define a surface thatcan receive a static load of the computing device when the case isarranged as a stand. Each of the first flexible region and the secondflexible region can include at least one spring and/or at least oneflexible layer. Furthermore, each of the first flexible region and thesecond flexible region can be arranged to cancel out at least a portionof the dynamic loads experienced by the computing device, while alsocanceling out a portion of the static load of the computing device. Forexample, the second flexible region can be arranged to cancel out moreof the static load of the computing device than the first flexibleregion, and the first flexible region can be arranged to cancel out moreof the dynamic loads than the second flexible region. Such arrangementscan be accomplished by varying the tension of one or more componentsthat make up the first flexible region and the second flexible region.Furthermore, such arrangements can be accomplished by varying an amountof friction at a surface of the case on which the static load of thecomputing device resides when in a standing position. Additionally,depressions can be formed into areas of the case for an edge of thecomputing device to rest in when the case is acting as a stand.

The flexible region can be disposed between two or more regions of thecase and can be debossed at one or more surfaces of the case. In thisway, any springs or flexible layers will be hidden from view when thecase is enclosing the computing device. Alternatively, one or moresurfaces of the case defining the flexible region can remain without adebossed area over the flexible region. The flexible region can includeone or more polymer layers, composite layers, and/or metal layers.Furthermore, the flexible region can be arranged to limit creeping orother degradation of the materials of the case over time. In someembodiments, the case is debossed on one side of the case where one ormore flexible regions are incorporated in order to preserve acosmetically smooth surface on a side of the case that is not debossed.Each flexible region can be arranged to have a limited bend radius inorder to prevent creases and other blemishes that can occur when bendingthe material(s) covering the case. For example, when the case is madefrom leather, imitation leather, polymer, and/or a composite material,creases in the case can become permanent over time thereby making thecase weaker and prone to environmental damage. Therefore, limiting thebend radius can mitigate cosmetic artifacts that can eventuallycompromise the integrity of the case.

The case can be attached to the computing device by incorporating one ormore rigid or flexible magnets into a region of the computing devicethat is to be attached the computing device, such as the front surface,the back surface, and/or a region between the front surface and the backsurface. In some embodiments, the case can incorporate a rigid framethat wraps at least partially around one or more edges of the computingdevice in order to maintain the computing device against one or moresides of the case. In yet other embodiments, the case can merely rely onsurface friction directly between the case and the computing device toensure that the computing device remains within the case when the caseis at least partially enveloping the computing device. The case canincorporate one or more shims for improving the structural rigidity ofthe case at the back cover and/or front cover of the case. In someembodiments, the front cover of the case can remain flexible (evenwithout a flexible element), thereby allowing the front cover to foldaway, similar to a paperback book cover or magazine cover. The case caninclude conductive pathways embedded within the case in order tocommunicate signals to and from the computing device. For example, thecase can include a keyboard, speakers, microphone, touch pad, camera,and/or any electrical component suitable for communicating with acomputing device. Signals from the electrical components can be relayedthrough the conductive pathways in the case and arrive at the computingdevice. Such electrical components can be powered by an external powersource relative to the case (e.g., the battery of the computing deviceattached to the case or a power plug attached to an electrical outletand the case). Alternatively, the electrical components can be poweredby an inductive power source that transmits wireless power signals to aninductor embedded in the case. The inductive power source can beattached to one or more electrical components embedded in the computingdevice.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1A-9. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thedetailed description given herein with respect to these figures is forexplanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

FIG. 1A illustrates a front perspective view a device cover 100 forpositioning a computing device 102 into a position suitable for viewinga display 104 of the computing device 102. The computing device 102 mayinclude a tablet computing device, or a mobile communication device,such as a smartphone. The display 104 is designed to prevent visualinformation to a user in the form of textual information, still images,and/or video. Also, the display 104 may include a touch-sensitive layerthat allows the display 104 to receive touch inputs used to provide acontrol or command to the display 104. The computing device 102 mayfurther include an enclosure 106 that receives the display 104 andseveral internal components (not shown), such as processor circuits,memory circuits, speakers, and batteries, as non-limiting examples. Theenclosure 106 may include a metal, such as aluminum. In order to supportthe computing device 102, the device cover 100 may include multiplesections. For example, the device cover 100 may include a first backcover 108 and a second back cover 110. The first back cover 108 and thesecond back cover 110 may combine to support the computing device 102.For example, the first back cover 108 and the second back cover 110 canprovide support for the computing device 102 when the computing device102 is receiving a touch input at the display 104. Also, the devicecover 100 may include a front cover 112 positioned below the computingdevice 102. The front cover 112 may include a bumper 114 designed toengage the computing device 102. Due in part of the arrangement of thedevice cover 100, the bumper 114 defines the only position that thedevice cover 100 can be arranged to support the computing device 102 inan upright position, as shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1B illustrates a rear perspective view of the device cover 100shown in FIG. 1A. As shown, the first back cover 108 is pivotallyconnected to the second back cover 110 such that the first back cover108 may rotate with respect to the second back cover 110, and viceversa. Also, the front cover 112 pivotally connected to the second backcover 110 such that the second back cover 110 may rotate with respect tothe second back cover 110, and vice versa.

The arrangement of the computing device 102 and the device cover 100illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B is the only arrangement where this ispossible. For example, if the computing device 102 was not restingagainst the bumper 114 (shown in FIG. 1A), the computing device 102 maytip over and cause both the first back cover 108 and the second backcover 110 to collapse in response to a touch input at the display 104.This is in part due to a lack of components in the device cover 100 thatcan create a torsional force and resist static and dynamic loadsexhibited by the computing device 102 when the computing device 102 isat least partially upright.

FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a case200, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the case200 may couple with and support the computing device 102. Further, thecase 200 is designed to resist static loads (such as the weight of thecomputing device 102), as well as dynamic loads (including touch inputsto the display 104). Each of these loads may be exerted on the case 200as a result of the computing device 102 being positioned in an at leastpartially upright position, as shown in FIG. 2A.

The case 200 can include a front cover 212 that includes an interiorsurface 214 that can be made from material that provides some amount offriction to resist the movement of an edge of the computing device 102in contact with the interior surface 214, as shown in FIG. 2A.Additionally, the case 200 can include one or more covers that can actas a stand for the computing device 102 when the computing device isarranged in an at least partially upright position. For example, thecase 200 can include a first back cover 208 and a second back cover 210connected with the first back cover 208, with the first back cover 208and the second back cover 210 supporting the computing device 102.

The second back cover 210 may be pivotally coupled with the front cover212. Although not shown, the front cover 212 is design to rotate withrespect to the second back cover 210 such that the front cover 212 canbe positioned over the computing device 102, and in particular, thedisplay 104. The case 200 may include several flexible elements embeddedin the second back cover 210 and the front cover 212. For example, thecase 200 may include a first torsional element 216, a second torsionalelement 218, and a third torsional element 220. As shown in the enlargedview, the first torsional element 216 may resemble a spring with a firstend 222 and a second end 224 embedded in the front cover 212 and thesecond back cover 210, respectively. The first torsional element 216 caninclude springs made from a metal or plastic, and having at least twoends that terminate in a substantially straight orientation. The secondtorsional element 218 and the third torsional element 220 may includeany feature(s) described for the first torsional element. Also, thefirst torsional element 216, the second torsional element 218, and thethird torsional element 220 may represent a first flexible region(between the second back cover 210 and the front cover 212) of the case200.

The aforementioned torsional elements may combine to cancel out at leastsome, and in some cases all, of the static and dynamic loads associatedwith the computing device 102. Also, at least a portion of the torsionalelements can be disposed within the case 200 such that the torsionalelements are hidden from the sight of a user. For example, a layer ofmaterial such as leather, imitation leather, composite material, rubber,and/or any other material suitable for attaching to a case (such as thecase 200) can be disposed around the case 200 to at least partiallyenvelope the case 200. The layer of material can be attached to thefirst back cover 208, the second back cover 210, and/or the front cover212.

FIG. 2B illustrate a rear perspective view of the case 200 shown in FIG.2A, showing additional torsional elements of the case 200. As shown, thecase 200 may include torsional elements that extend into the first backcover 208 and the second back cover 210. For example, the case 200 mayinclude a first torsional element 236, a second torsional element 238,and a third torsional element 240, with each of the torsional elementsextending into both the first back cover 208 and the second back cover210. Similar to the torsional elements extending into both the secondback cover 210 and the front cover 212, the first torsional element 236,the second torsional element 238, and the third torsional element 240may combine to cancel out at least some, and in some cases all, of thestatic and dynamic loads associated with the computing device 102. Also,the layer(s) of material that cover the include the first torsionalelement 216, the second torsional element 218, and the third torsionalelement 220 may also cover the first torsional element 236, the secondtorsional element 238, and the third torsional element 240. Also, thefirst torsional element 236, the second torsional element 238, and thethird torsional element 240 may represent a second flexible region(between the first back cover 208 and the second back cover 210) of thecase 200.

FIG. 3A is a front perspective of an embodiments of a case 300, inaccordance with some described embodiments. The case 300 may include anymaterial(s) or feature(s) previously described for the case 200, shownin FIGS. 2A and 2B. As shown, the case 300 may include a first backcover 308, a second back cover 310, and a front cover 312. Further, inorder to secure the computing device 102 with the case, the first backcover 308 may include latching elements, such as a first latchingelement 344 and a second latching element 346. However, the number oflatching elements may vary. Also, the case may include multipletorsional elements that form flexible regions, with the torsionalelements designed to support the computing device 102. This will bediscussed below.

The case 300 is designed to support the computing device 102, even whenthe computing device 102 is at least partially upright, as shown in FIG.3A. For instance, a user may provide a touch input that results in atouch force 354 against the computing device 102 and specifically,against the display 104. At least a portion of the touch force istransferred to the front cover 312 and to each of the first back cover308 and the second back cover 310. In order to at least partially orfully cancel the touch force, the case 300 includes a flexible region.As shown in FIG. 3A, the case 300 includes a first torsional element316, a second torsional element 318, and a third torsional element 320,each of which may extend into both the second back cover 310 and thefront cover 312. These torsional elements may define in part a joint ofa flexible region between the second back cover 310 and the front cover312, and may include any material or feature previously described for atorsional element.

The case 300 may include an additional flexible region. For example,FIG. 3B illustrates a rear isometric view of the case 300 shown in FIG.3A, further showing additional torsional elements, such as a firsttorsional element 336, a second torsional element 338, and a thirdtorsional element 340. These torsional elements may define in part ajoint at the additional flexible region between the first back cover 308and the second back cover 310, and may include any material or featurepreviously described for a torsional element. The flexible regionbetween the first back cover 308 and the second back cover 310 create afirst torsional force 360 (also shown in FIG. 3A) that can cancel out atleast a portion of the touch force 354. Furthermore, when the computingdevice 102 is at least partially upright, a static force 356 from theweight of the computing device 102 can be transferred to the first backcover 308, the second back cover 310, and the front cover 312. In orderto at least partially cancel the static force 356 (also shown in FIG.3A), the flexible region connected at a joint between the front cover312 and the second back cover 310 can provide a second torsional force362. The second torsional force 362 can at least partially or fullycancel the static force 356, thereby allowing the computing device 102to be arranged in nearly an unlimited number of angles relative to aninterior surface 314 of the front cover 312. For example, the computingdevice 102 can be arranged at a 90-, 65-, 45-, and 15-degree angle, asnon-limiting examples, relative to the interior surface 314 without thestatic force 356 overcoming the second torsional force 362 and causingthe first back cover 308 and the second back cover 310 to collapse.Furthermore, because the first torsional force 360 cancels out amajority of the touch force 354, a user can interact with the display104 (shown in FIG. 3A) at any angle of the computing device 102 withouthaving to worry about the computing device 102 falling down. In someembodiments, in order to mitigate any opportunity for the computingdevice 102 to overcome a force of friction 364 (also shown in FIG. 3A)provided by the interior surface 314, the surface friction of theinterior surface 314 can be increased. For example, the surface frictionof the interior surface 314 can be higher than an exterior surfacefriction of the case 300 in order to provide a smoother surface on anexterior of the case 300 compared to the interior surface 314.

FIG. 4A illustrate a front perspective view of an embodiment of a case400 that includes alternate flexible regions, in accordance with somedescribed embodiments. As shown, the case 400 may include a first backcover 408 and a second back cover 410, with a first flexible region 422defining a joint between the first back cover 408 and the second backcover 410. The case 400 may include a front cover 412 connected with thesecond back cover 410, with a second flexible region 424 defining ajoint between the second back cover 410 and the front cover 412. Each ofthe first flexible region 422 and the second flexible region 424 canincorporate one or more flexible layers (shown as dotted lines) forsupporting the computing device 102 in one or more upright arrangements.For example, the first flexible region 422 can create a first torsionalforce 466 that at least partially cancels a touch force 454 that can beprovided by a user at the display 104. Additionally, the second flexibleregion 424 can create a second torsional force 460 that at leastpartially cancels a static force 456 created in part by a weight of thecomputing device 102. In this way, a user is able to fold the case 400into any suitable arrangement for supporting the computing device 102 inan upright position without having to worry about a touch force 454 ortouch gesture causing the computing device 102 to move or collapse.Furthermore, an interior surface 414 of the front cover 412 can includea surface made from a material that creates a force of friction 470 thatprevents the computing device 102 from slipping across the interiorsurface 414.

FIG. 4B illustrates a rear isometric view of the case 400 shown in FIG.4A. As shown, the first flexible region 422 can extend across (andbetween) the first back cover 408 and the second back cover 410, whilethe second flexible region 424 can extend across (and between) thesecond back cover 410 and the front cover 412. Although a discretenumber of flexible regions is shown, in some embodiments, the case 400can have more than two flexible regions. For example, the case 400 canhave at least two non-parallel flexible regions disposed within the case40. Also, in some embodiments, the case 400 includes a magnet 428disposed within the first back cover 408. The magnet 428 may be used tosecure the computing device 102 with the case 400 by way of magneticattraction between the magnet 428 and a magnetic element or magneticallyattractable material (not shown) disposed in the computing device 102.Any of the magnets discussed herein can include particles of neodymium,niobium, iron, and/or any other rigid or flexible magnetic material.Also, although not shown, the first back cover 408 may include two ormore magnets. Also, although not shown, the second back cover 410 mayinclude a magnet that magnetically couples with a magnetic element ormagnetically attractable material (not shown) disposed in the computingdevice 102.

The case 400 can include one or more layers of leather, imitationleather, microfiber, composite, plastic, rubber, metal, and/or any othermaterial suitable for forming into a case for a computing device. One ormore layers of flexible material can be disposed within the case 400 tocreate the first flexible region 422 and the second flexible region 424.The first flexible region 422 and/or the second flexible region 424 canbe debossed on one or more sides of the case 400 where the firstflexible region 422 and/or the second flexible region 424 reside.Further description of the flexible region is described herein,especially respect to FIG. 5, which illustrates a cross sectional viewof the first flexible region 422 taken from a cross sectional cutaway426 of the case 400 along the first flexible region 422.

FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate cross sectional views corresponding to theflexible regions discussed herein. For example, the cross sectionalviews shown and described in FIGS. 5A-5D can correspond to a crosssection of the first flexible region 422 identified at the crosssectional cutaway 426 of FIG. 4B. However, it should be noted that thecross sectional views can correspond to any of the flexible regions,such as the second flexible region 424 (shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B),described with respect to any of the cases discussed herein.

FIG. 5A illustrates a cross sectional view of a flexible region 500 of acase. The flexible region 500 can include a first layer 502 that can bemade from leather, imitation leather, microfiber, plastic, metal, and/orany other material for forming a case. The flexible region 500 can alsoinclude a second layer 504 that can be made from the same material asthe first layer 502 or a different material. For example, the firstlayer 502 can be made from leather or imitation leather, and the secondlayer 504 can be made from a microfiber or synthetic material. The firstlayer 502 can correspond to an outer layer that is most visible to auser of a case (such as the case 400 shown in FIG. 4A) and a computingdevice (such as the computing device 102 shown in FIG. 4A). The secondlayer 504 can be a layer that abuts a computing device when thecomputing device is disposed with the case corresponding to the flexibleregion 500. Also, the first layer 502 and the second layer 504 can alsoinclude a first embossed portion 506 and a second embossed portion 508,respectively. The first embossed portion 506 may separate a first panel510 from a second panel 512 (both used to form a case), while the secondembossed portion 508 may separate a third panel 514 from a fourth panel516 (both used to form a case). Also, the flexible region 500 mayfurther include a flexible component 518. The flexible component 518 canbe made from any material suitable for acting as a spring or flexiblejoint between two panels. For example, the flexible component 518 can bemade from any material that exhibits some amount of tension and can formback into an original shape after experiencing some amount of tension.Such materials can include plastic, rubber, foam, elastomer, metal,and/or any other synthetic or non-synthetic material. In someembodiments, the flexible component 518 can span an entire width of eachof the aforementioned panels or only between portions of the panels. Inyet other embodiments, the flexible component 518 is not disposedbetween the panels and is only disposed between the first embossedportion 506 and the second embossed portion 508.

FIG. 5B illustrates another embodiment of a flexible region 520 that canbe included in any of the cases described herein. The embodiment of FIG.5B includes a first layer 522 and a second layer 524, similar to thefirst layer 502 and the second layer 504, respectively, described withrespect to FIG. 5A. However, in FIG. 5B, only the second layer 524includes a debossed portion 528. Additionally, the flexible region 520includes panels, such as a first panel 530 and a second panel 532, onlybetween the second layer 524 and a flexible component 538, which mayinclude any material(s) previously described for the flexible component518 (shown in FIG. 5A). Further, the debossed portion 528 in the secondlayer 524 may define a hinge between the first panel 530 and the secondpanel 532. The first panel 530 and the second panel 532 can be definedby one or more plastic or metal shims disposed within a case (such asthe case 400, shown in FIG. 4A). The first panel 530 and the secondpanel 532 can be adhered or molded to the flexible component 538.Furthermore, the flexible component 538 can be formed as a single piecewith the first panel 530 and the second panel 532, such that theflexible component 538 is a less thick region compared to the firstpanel 530 and the second panel 532.

FIG. 5C illustrates yet another embodiment of a flexible region 540 thatcan be included in any of the cases described herein. The embodiment ofFIG. 5C includes a first layer 542 and a second layer 544, similar tothe first layer 502 and the second layer 504, respectively, describedwith respect to FIG. 5A. However, the first layer 542 and the secondlayer 544 in FIG. 5C may not include a debossed portion. In this way, acosmetically smooth and flat surface can be seen on both sides of theflexible region 540. Additionally, the flexible region 540 can include afirst panel 550 and a second panel 552 that combine (with the firstlayer 542 and the second layer 544) to surround a flexible component558. The flexible component 558 can be made from the same material asthe flexible component 518 of FIG. 5A. However, the flexible component558 can have distal ends that are disposed adjacent to distal ends ofthe first panel 550 and the second panel 552 in order to create asurface of uniform thickness over the flexible region 540.Alternatively, the flexible component 558 can be configured to at leastpartially reside within a portion of the first panel 550 and/or thesecond panel 552 in order to lock the flexible component 558 in place.

FIG. 5D illustrates another embodiment of a flexible region 560 that canbe included in any of the cases described herein. The flexible region560 may include a first layer 562 and a second layer 564, similar to thefirst layer 502 and the second layer 504, respectively, described withrespect to FIG. 5A. The flexible region 560 may further include a firstpanel 570 and a second panel 572 that combine (with the first layer 562and the second layer 564) to surround a frictional layer 576 and theflexible component 578. The flexible component 578 can act as an elasticjoint between the first panel 570 and the second panel 572. Thefrictional layer 576 can act as a clutch that can bend into any angleand resist deformation out of an angle into which the frictional layer576 is bent. The frictional layer 576 can be a clutch assembly thatincludes at least one joint that resists rotation but allows for someamount of rotation. In this way, the flexible region 560 can be deformedor rotated into any angle while still resisting some amount of staticand/or dynamic loads exerted by a computing device (such as thecomputing device 102, shown in FIG. 4A) at any angle of the computingdevice. In some embodiments, the frictional layer 576 can be made from aplastic, metal, and/or any other material that can bent from a flatposition into an angled position, and resist deformation once in theangled position. In this way, the flexible region 560 can be bent intoan angled position, such as the position of the first flexible region422 (shown in FIG. 4B), and counteract dynamic loads (e.g., the touchforce 454, shown in FIG. 4B), and also be bent into a flat position,such as the position of the front cover 412 of the case 400 (FIG. 4B),and resist bending out of the flat position. In some embodiments, whenthe flexible region 560 is in the angled position and/or in the flatposition, a static force of the frictional layer 576 can be greater thana static force of the flexible component 578. As a result, the flexibleregion 560 can remain, or tend to remain, in any shape or anglecorresponding to the frictional layer 576. The flexible region 560 canbe incorporated into the case 400 (shown FIGS. 4A and 4B) at the firstflexible region 422 and/or the second flexible region 424, to assist incounteracting both static and dynamic loads exerted by the computingdevice 102.

FIG. 6A illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a case600 that is attached to a back surface of the computing device 102, withthe back surface opposite the display 104, in accordance with somedescribed embodiments. The case 600 can include a first portion 608 thatincludes one or more panels and a second portion 610 that also includesone or more panels. The case 600 may further include a flexible region620 disposed between the first portion 608 and the second portion 610.The flexible region 620 can include one or more springs as discussedherein, and/or one or more layers of flexible material that act as aspring embedded between layers that define the first portion 608 and thesecond portion 610.

FIG. 6B illustrates a rear isometric view of the case 600 shown in FIG.6A. The flexible region 620 can provide a torsional force 662 (alsolabeled in FIG. 6A) that can at least partially cancel a touch force 654(also labeled in FIG. 6A) that is carried through the computing device102 to the case 600 when a user touches the display 104 (shown in FIG.6A). By canceling out the touch force 654, a user is able to arrange thecase 600 such that the case 600 positions the computing device 102upright without concern for the computing device 102 tipping over whenthe user is tapping on the display 104. Furthermore, the torsional force662 can at least partially cancel a static force 656 exhibited by thecomputing device 102 due to the weight of the computing device 102. Inthis way, a first frictional force 658 and/or a second frictional force660 (also labeled in FIG. 6A) need not be primarily relied upon formaintaining an angle of the computing device 102 relative to a surfaceon which the computing device 102 and the case 600 are resting. As aresult, the case 600 and the computing device 102 can be placed onnearly any surface and maintain any configuration while receivingreasonable touch input forces from a user.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a case 700that can include one or more flexible regions and conductive pathwaysfor operating electrical components embedded in the case 700, inaccordance with some described embodiments. The case 700 can include afirst back cover 708 and a second back cover 710. The case 700 canfurther include a front cover 712 that acts as a support for thecomputing device 102 when the computing device 102 is arranged in an atleast partially upright position, as shown in FIG. 7. The case 700 mayfurther include a first flexible region 722 disposed between the firstback cover 708 and the second back cover 710, as well as second flexibleregion 724 disposed between the second back cover 710 and the frontcover 712. Each of the first flexible region 722 and the second flexibleregion 724 can be understood and modified according to any of theembodiments provided herein.

The case 700 can also include a conductive pathway 730 created by one ormore flexible conductive layers disposed within the case 700. Theconductive pathway 730 can extend through the first flexible region 722and/or the second flexible region 724. Additionally, the conductivepathway 730 can connect (which may include an electrical connection) tothe computing device 102 at one or more edges of the computing device102, or a back surface of the computing device 102. The case 700 can beadhered to the computing device 102, magnetically coupled to thecomputing device 102, or otherwise attached to the computing device 102by way of friction between the computing device 102 and the case 700.Electrical signals traveling through the case 700 can be wirelesslytransmitted between inductors located in the computing device 102 andthe case 700. In some embodiments, the case 700 may include a keyboard732 embedded in the case 700 and electrically coupled to the conductivepathway 730. In this way, a user can type on the keyboard 732 andcontrol applications executing on the computing device 102 by way ofsignals traveling via the conductive pathway 730. The keyboard 732 canreceive power by the computing device 102, by way of an internal powersupply (not shown), or battery, within the computing device 102.Alternatively, the case 700 may include an internal power supply (notshown). Still, as an additional alternative, an auxiliary power supply(not shown) connected to the case 700 and an external power source, suchas an outlet or another computing device. In some embodiments, the case700 can include electrical components in place of or in addition to thekeyboard 732. For example, such electrical components can include aspeaker, microphone, wireless transmitter, touch pad, heating pad orcooling pad, camera, processor, radio-frequency identification (RFID)tag, and/or any other electrical component.

FIG. 8A illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a case800 that includes magnets for creating a magnetic trough in which thecomputing device 102 can hover above as a result of magnetic repulsionand at least one or more flexible regions of the case 800. The case 800can include a panel 802 that is connected to at least a first back cover808 and/or a second back cover 810 of the case 800. The case 800 mayfurther include a front cover 812. The case 800 may further include afirst flexible region 822 disposed between the first back cover 808 andthe second back cover 810, as well as second flexible region 824disposed between the second back cover 810 and the front cover 812.Also, the front cover 812 may include a first magnetic assembly 830 thatincludes one or more magnets (shown as dotted lines). The first magneticassembly 830 will be further discussed below. Also, the first magneticassembly 830 may be hidden by the front cover 812.

FIG. 8B illustrates a front perspective view of the case 800 shown inFIG. 8A, with the computing device 102 removed from the case 800. Also,a bottom portion of the front cover 812 is removed for purposes ofillustration. As shown, the panel 802 can include a second magneticassembly 832 that includes one or more magnets designed to magneticallyrepel the magnets of the first magnetic assembly 830 disposed in thefront cover 812. The first magnetic assembly 830 and the second magneticassembly 832 can be arranged such that their respective externalmagnetic fields are pointing in substantially the same direction. Forexample, FIG. 8B illustrates a magnetic field view 816 that provides asimplified view of an arrangement of the magnetic fields created by thefirst magnetic assembly 830 and the second magnetic assembly 832, whenthe second magnetic assembly 832 hovers over the first magnetic assembly830. The first magnetic assembly 830 can create a first magnetic field842 and second magnetic assembly 832 can create a second magnetic field844. Because the first magnetic field 842 and the second magnetic field844 are arranged in similar directions (as indicated by the “x,” whichis provided to resemble the back of an arrow that points in thedirection of the magnetic field vector lines), the first magneticassembly 830 and the second magnetic assembly 832 will repel each otherby way of a magnetic repulsion force 840 (also shown in FIG. 8A).Furthermore, because the case 800 includes a first flexible region 822and a second flexible region 824 that can at least partially cancel outa static load 856(shown in FIG. 8A) created by a weight of the computingdevice 102, the magnetic repulsion force 840 will cause the computingdevice 102 to hover over the first magnetic assembly 830, which acts asa magnetic trough. The first magnetic assembly 830 can be arranged suchthat at least two magnets extend parallel to an edge of the computingdevice 102 nearest the first magnetic assembly 830 when the computingdevice 102 is arranged over the front cover 812. In some embodiments, atleast three of first magnetic assembly 830 can be arranged within thefront cover 812, and at least two of magnets of the first magneticassembly 830 can have different size magnetic fields. For example, amagnet of the first magnetic assembly 830 can be arranged between twolarger magnets of the first magnetic assembly 830 to create a magnetictrough for an edge of the computing device 102 to reside and hoverabove. A distance by which the computing device 102 can hover above thefront cover can be one or more millimeters, centimeters, or inches insome embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart 900 showing a method for forming a case,in accordance with some described embodiments. In this regard, the casemay include any case discussed herein. The method can be performed by acomputing device or any apparatus suitable for performing manufacturingoperations. Furthermore, the method can be modified according to any ofthe embodiments discussed herein. The method can include a step 902 ofdisposing a flexible component between at least two panels. The flexiblecomponent can be a spring or flexible layer of material that acts as aspring. The two panels can be set against, adhered to, or formed to theflexible component.

The method can further include a step 904 of covering opposing sides ofthe flexible component and the at least two panels with a covermaterial. The cover material can include leather, imitation leather,microfiber, rubber, plastic, metal, and/or any other suitable covermaterial. Furthermore, different types of materials can be connected todifferent sides of the two panels and the flexible component.

The method can also include an optional step 906 of debossing a portionof the cover material where the flexible component resides. Debossingcan be performed using pressure and/or heat in order to createdepression in the cover material where the flexible component resides.

In some embodiments a case is set forth that includes at least two coverportions configurable as a stand for the computing device. The case canalso include a flexible region between the at least two cover portions.The flexible region can be configured to provide a torsional force thatcounteracts at least some amount of static weight of the computingdevice when the at least two cover portions are configured as the stand.The flexible region can be configured to counteract a static forceexerted by the computing device using a torsional force exerted by theflexible region, and the torsional force exerted by the flexible regioncan increase as the static force exerted by the computing deviceincreases. The static force exerted by the computing device can changebased on an angle of the computing device relative to a surface on whichthe cover portions and the computing device are capable of resting. Theflexible region can include one or more springs configured to providethe torsional force. The case can also include a secondary flexibleregion disposed within a cover portion of the at least two coverportions, wherein the cover portion includes a first cover and a secondcover, and the secondary flexible region is disposed between the firstcover and the second cover. Furthermore, the secondary flexible regioncan be configured to provide a secondary torsional force thatcounteracts dynamic forces associated with a touch input at thecomputing device when the at least two cover portions are configured asthe stand. Additionally, the flexible region can include one or morelayers of a flexible elastomer material, and the one or more layers offlexible elastomer material can extend into at least a portion of acover of the at least two cover portions. The cover can be debossed at aregion of the cover that includes the one or more layers of flexiblematerial. The at least two cover portions include at least one of aleather layer, an imitation leather layer, a microfiber layer, a metallayer, and/or a combination thereof.

In other embodiments, a case configurable as a stand for a computingdevice is set forth. The case can include a first cover comprising afirst flexible region and at least one cover layer disposed over thefirst flexible region; and a second cover connected to the first coverby at least a second flexible region. The first flexible region and thesecond flexible region can be configured to provide torsional forcesthat counteract a weight of the computing device when the first coverand the second cover are arranged as the stand for the computing device.The first flexible region and/or the second flexible region include anelastic joint configured to counteract the weight of the computingdevice and a frictional joint configured to counteract dynamic loadsexerted by the computing device. The first cover can include one or moremagnets for attaching the first cover to the computing device. The atleast one cover layer can include at least one debossed region over aportion of the first flexible region. Additionally, the first cover caninclude at least two panels disposed on opposite sides of the firstflexible region. Furthermore, a panel of the at least two panels can beconfigured to extend away from the computing device when the first coverand the second cover are arranged as the stand for the computing device.A torsional force of the first flexible region can be configured tocounteract user input forces at a touch screen of the computing devicewhen the first cover and the second cover are arranged as the stand. Thetorsional forces can include a first torsional force that acts in afirst radial direction, and a second torsional force that acts in asecond radial direction opposite the first radial direction.

In yet other embodiments a system is set forth. The system can include adevice cover configurable as a stand and a protective cover for acomputing device; and at least one flexible component disposed withinthe device cover such that the at least one flexible component providesa torsional spring force that counteracts a standing weight and dynamicmechanical loads of the computing device when the device cover isconfigured as a stand. The at least one flexible component can include afirst flexible component arranged adjacent to an edge of the computingdevice when the device cover is configured as the protective cover, anda second flexible component arranged over a surface of the computingdevice when the device cover is configured as the protective cover. Thedevice cover can include at least one single layer of material thatconceals and extends over both of the first flexible component and thesecond flexible component. Furthermore, the first flexible component andthe second flexible component can be configured to provide opposingtorsional spring forces in opposing radial directions when the devicecover is arranged as the stand for the computing device. Additionally,an interior surface of the device cover can be configured to support anedge of the computing device when the device cover is configured as thestand and the computing device is arranged at any angle between 90 and30 degrees relative to the interior surface.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specificnomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the describedembodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatthe specific details are not required in order to practice the describedembodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodimentsare presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to theprecise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art that many modifications and variations are possible in view ofthe above teachings. Furthermore, some or all features of each of theembodiments described herein can be combined and/or included into otherembodiments to create additional embodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. An accessory case for a portable electronicdevice that includes a display and a protective cover that overlays thedisplay, the accessory case comprising: a first portion capable ofreleasably coupling to the portable electronic device; a second portionrotationally connected to the first portion; and a base portionrotationally connected to the second portion, wherein an open positioncomprises the first portion and the second portion maintaining theportable electronic device in a suspended configuration such that theportable electronic device lacks contact with the base portion, andwherein a closed position comprises: the base portion covering theprotective cover, and the first portion and the second portion coveringa second surface of the portable electronic device, the second surfaceopposite the protective cover.
 2. The accessory case of claim 1,wherein: the first portion comprises a first magnetic assembly having afirst magnetic field, the base portion comprises a second magneticassembly having a second magnetic field, and the second magnetic fieldmagnetically repels the first magnetic field to form the suspendedconfiguration.
 3. The accessory case of claim 2, further comprising apanel carried by the first portion, the panel having a size and shape ofthe portable electronic device, wherein the panel carries the firstmagnetic assembly.
 4. The accessory case of claim 1, further comprisinga hinge embedded in the first portion and the second portion, the hingeproviding a force to counterbalance the portable electronic device. 5.The accessory case of claim 4, wherein the hinge counteracts theportable electronic device over multiple angles of the first portionwith respect to the base portion.
 6. The accessory case of claim 1,wherein: the first portion is integrally formed with the second portion,the second portion is integrally formed with the base portion, and thefirst portion, the second portion, and the base portion define asingle-piece body.
 7. The accessory case of claim 1, wherein the baseportion defines a front cover capable of fully covering the display. 8.An accessory case, comprising: a first back cover configured to carry aportable electronic device; a second back cover coupled to the firstback cover, wherein the first back cover is movable with respect to thesecond back cover; a third back cover coupled to the second back cover,the third back cover movable with respect to the second back cover andcapable of fully covering a display of the portable electronic device; afirst magnetic assembly carried by the third back cover, the firstmagnetic assembly providing a first magnetic polarity; and a secondmagnetic assembly carried by the first back cover, the second magneticassembly providing the first magnetic polarity, thereby causing amagnetic repulsion between the first magnetic assembly and the secondmagnetic assembly, wherein the first back cover is suspended from thethird back cover and lacking contact with the third back cover based onthe magnetic repulsion.
 9. The accessory case of claim 8, when the firstback cover carries the portable electronic device, the portableelectronic device is free of contact with the third back cover.
 10. Theaccessory case of claim 8, further comprising: a first flexible regionembedded in the first back cover and the second back cover; and a secondflexible region embedded in the second back cover portion and the thirdback cover.
 11. The accessory case of claim 10, wherein the firstflexible region provides a force to counterbalance the portableelectronic device.
 12. The accessory case of claim 11, wherein the firstflexible region counteracts the portable electronic device over multipleangles of the first back cover with respect to the third back cover. 13.The accessory case of claim 8, wherein the first magnetic assembly ishidden by the third back cover.
 14. The accessory case of claim 8,wherein: the first back cover comprises a first rectangular cover, thesecond back cover comprises a second rectangular cover, and the thirdback cover comprises a third rectangular cover.
 15. The accessory caseof claim 8, wherein the first magnetic assembly is covered by a surfacedefined by the third back cover.
 16. The accessory case of claim 8,wherein the first back cover allows the portable electronic device tohover over the third back cover.
 17. The accessory case of claim 8,wherein the first back cover, the second back cover, and the third backcover define a folio.
 18. An accessory case for a portable electronicdevice, the accessory case comprising: a back cover that is removablycoupled to the portable electronic device; and a front coverrotationally coupled to the back cover, wherein: a first positioncomprises the front cover folding with respect to the back cover andcovering a display of the portable electronic device, and a secondposition comprises the back cover maintaining the portable electronicdevice in a suspended configuration such that portable electronic deviceis free of contact with the front cover.
 19. The accessory case of claim16, further comprising: a first magnetic assembly carried by the frontcover, and a second magnetic assembly carried by the back cover, thesecond magnetic assembly magnetically repelling the first magneticassembly such that the portable electronic device, when carried by theback cover, hovers over the front cover.
 20. The accessory case of claim19, wherein the front cover hides the first magnetic assembly.
 21. Theaccessory case of claim 19, wherein a static force provided by theportable electronic device is offset by the second magnetic assemblymagnetically repelling the first magnetic assembly.
 22. The accessorycase of claim 18, wherein the back cover is integrally formed with thefront cover such to define a single-piece body.
 23. The accessory caseof claim 18, wherein the front cover is capable of fully covering thedisplay.